BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO

The Bazaruto Archipelago is a protected marine park comprising five sun-kissed islands off the south coast of Mozambique. Bazaruto, the largest of the islands, consists of sand dunes surrounded by rich marine life.

Humpback whales, dolphins, turtles, manta rays and the endangered dugong glide through the waters and over the dazzling corals.

A sunset dhow cruise is a beautiful ending to a day on the water, with views over the archipelago and a chance to experience the local mode of water transport.

Nearby Benguerra Island, the second largest in the Bazaruto Archipelago, offers many exciting activities too: horse-back rides, island picnics, scuba diving and snorkelling.

A 90-minute flight from Johannesburg into mainland Vilanculos or a 1-hour flight from Mpumalanga International Airport (close to the Kruger National Park) allows one to combine a remote island holiday with a South African safari. The islands can be reached by boat or light aircraft from Vilanculos.